Luggage system employing a telescopically-extendable handle and battery power supply assembly equipped with a semi-automatic battery power module ejection mechanism

ABSTRACT

A luggage system employing a telescopically-extendable handle and rechargeable battery power supplying assembly. The assembly includes a pair of spaced-apart stationary guide tubes for supporting a pair of telescopically-extendable rods joined to a handle structure. A base housing component is mounted in an aperture formed in the rear housing portion, and has a top surface. A battery module casing is mounted to and beneath the base housing component, and disposed substantially in the same plane as and between the pair of spaced-apart guide tubes. A rechargeable DC battery power module is contained in the battery module casing, and provides a DC battery recharging port and a set of DC power supplying ports. A semi-automatic battery power module ejection mechanism is mounted within a battery module casing mounted beneath the telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplying assembly.

RELATED CASES

The present Application is a Continuation-in-Part (CIP) of applicationSer. No. 14/935,335 filed Nov. 6, 2015, commonly owned by Applicant,JRSK, Inc., and incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forthherein.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION Field of Invention

The present invention relates to new and improved hard-shell luggagesystems for helping individuals transport personal items throughairports, terminals, and other transportation systems, while overcomingthe shortcomings and drawbacks associated with prior art technologies.

Brief Overview of the State of Knowledge and Skill in the Art

Luggage systems have evolved greatly over the past 100 years in stepwith developments in transportation systems (i.e. airports, terminals,bus stations and railways, and ocean liners), electronic communicationand computing technologies, and evolving consumer behaviors andlifestyles. Consequently, particular groups of travelers have developedparticular sets of expectations when it comes to particular classes oftravel. At the same time, manufacturers of luggage systems have workedhard to ensure their evolving lines of luggage systems and relatedproducts will meet and satisfy these evolving expectations relating toutility, functionality, aesthetics as well as beauty.

While thousands of luggage systems have been designed, developed,manufactured and sold throughout the global marketplace over the pastthree decades, for both carry-on and check-in luggage systems alike,there still remains, however, a great need for new and improved luggagesystems that address the new ways in which many people like to travel,in styles they feel most comfortable, and with unprecedented levels ofconvenience which they naturally welcome. Also, there is a great needfor better rechargeable battery modules aboard modern luggage systems.

On Nov. 6, 2015, Applicant filed co-pending U.S. application Ser. No.14/935,335 disclosing several improved hard-shell luggage systemdesigns. Each of these luggage system designs employs an noveltelescopically-extendible handle and battery power module assembly andprovides its users with easily accessible USB-supplied DC electricalpower accessible beneath its retractable/protractible handle structurefor conveniently recharging mobile phones, iPads, laptop computers andother devices during travel.

While such USB-powered luggage systems have offered great value toconsumers around the world, some practical problems have naturallyarisen when using replaceable and rechargeable battery power modules insuch luggage systems, especially when moving in a world constrained byairline restrictions, product liability concerns, and heightened safetyand security situations. In particular, recent airline guidelinespromulgated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) (1stEdition, May 2017) “SMART BAGGAGE WITH INTEGRATED LITHIUM BATTERIES ANDELECTRONICS” require all lithium batteries to be removable and removedfrom their luggage pieces and carried into the cabin when traveling onan aircraft. To complicate things, the modern traveler is often forcedto navigate through complex travel environments, often with one handpulling the trolley handle of their luggage system, while one's otherhand is holding a mobile phone, purse and/or briefcase.

In view, therefore, of these facts and circumstances of the globalluggage system marketplace, there is a great need in the art for new andimproved luggage systems that that better address the ways in which manypeople like to travel, in a style they feel most comfortable, whileenjoying an unprecedented level of convenience which they will naturallywelcome, while overcoming the shortcomings and drawback of prior artluggage systems, methods and technologies.

SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Accordingly, a primary object of the present invention is to provide anew and improved luggage system that better addresses the ways in whichmany people like to travel, in a style they feel most comfortable, whileenjoying an unprecedented level of convenience which they will naturallywelcome, and overcoming the shortcomings and drawback of prior artluggage systems, methods and technologies.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new andimproved luggage system, wherein the housing portions are hingedtogether to provide a housing assembly provided with a set of spinnerwheels; a telescopically-extendable handle and rechargeable batterypower supplying assembly is mounted within a housing portion and has apair of spaced-apart telescopic-handle guide-tubes, supporting a pair oftelescopically-extendable rods joined to a handle structure for pullingthe luggage piece on its spinner wheels; and a semi-automatic batterypower module ejection mechanism mounted within a battery module casingmounted immediately beneath the telescopically-extendible handleassembly, for semi-automatically ejecting the battery power module fromthe top surface opening in the battery module casing, when the finger ofa user presses down on the battery power module while retained in thebattery module casing, and the battery power module automaticallypops-up above the surface of the power port access opening, for manualremovable from the battery module casing by the user's fingers.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new andimproved luggage system, wherein the telescopically-extendable handleand rechargeable battery power supplying assembly includes (i) a basehousing component mounted in an aperture formed in the rear housingportion and having a top surface; (ii) a battery module casing mountedto and beneath the base housing component, and disposed substantially inthe same plane as and between the pair of spaced-apart telescopic-handleguide tubes; (iii) a rechargeable DC battery power module contained inthe battery module casing, and providing a DC battery recharging portand a set of DC power supplying ports, directly accessible through thetop surface of the base housing component; and (iv) a power port coverpanel hinged to the base housing component and having a closedconfiguration and an open configuration, wherein the power port coverpanel conceals the DC power recharging port and the DC power supplyingports when the power port cover panel is arranged in the closedconfiguration, and wherein the power port cover panel reveals the DCpower recharging port and the DC power supplying ports when the powerport cover panel is arranged in the open configuration.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new andimproved hard-shell luggage system comprising front and rear hard-shellhousing portions hinged together and sealed using a zippering or othersealing mechanism, wherein a telescopic-handle and battery powersupplying assembly is mounted in the rear hard-shell housing portion andhaving a base housing assembly supporting a rechargeable battery powermodule having USB-type DC power supplying/discharging and rechargingports protected beneath a hinged power port cover panel, and ejectedfrom its battery module casing using a semi-automatic battery moduleejection mechanism adapted to the bottom opening of the battery modulecasing.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new andimproved luggage system that allows the user to pull (i.e. trolley) theluggage system around during travel, while talking on a mobile phonethat is being recharged with the telescopic handle assembly protractedand a USB power plug cable connected between the mobile phone and a USBpower port in the luggage system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new andimproved luggage system that has a USB power port cover panel that willautomatically close down and seal off a set of USB power recharging andsupplying ports from the environment, to minimize rain from seeping intothe USB power ports of the luggage system during travel.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new andimproved luggage system, wherein a semi-automatic battery power moduleejection mechanism is provided at the bottom of a battery module casing,mounted within the telescopically-extendable handle housing basecomponent, between the telescopic handle guide tubes, so as to enablesingle-finger battery module release operation.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new andimproved luggage system, wherein a semi-automatic battery power moduleejection mechanism is provided at the bottom of a battery module casing,mounted to an access opening in the telescopically-extendable handlehousing base component, between a pair of telescoping-handle guidetubes, so as to enable single-finger press and pop-up type batterymodule release operation during travel.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new andimproved hard-shell luggage system, wherein a manually-lockable latch isprovided on a hinged power port cover panel, disposed over the powerrecharging and supplying/discharging ports of a rechargeable batterypower module installed within the battery module casing mounted to thebase housing component of a telescopically-extendible handle and batterymodule assembly installed in a hard-shell luggage system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide new and improvedmethods of operating a luggage piece using single-finger andsingle-handed operations, including improved methods of loadingrechargeable battery power modules in luggage pieces; improved methodsof accessing and using of battery power modules in luggage pieces;improved methods of retaining battery power modules in luggage pieces;improved methods of securing battery power modules in luggage pieces;and improved methods of using luggage pieces equipped withrechargeable/replaceable battery power modules during travel.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improvedmethod of operating a luggage piece using single-handed operations,wherein the fingers of the user's hand are used to (i) manually releaseand protract the telescopically-extendible handle and battery powersupplying assembly from its base housing component installed in theluggage piece, (ii) slide or rotate its release latch/lock to unlock itshinged power port cover panel covering the USB power recharging anddischarging ports of the battery power module loaded and retained in thebattery module casing mounted beneath the telescopically-extendiblehandle and battery power supplying assembly, (iii) rotate upwardly thehinged power port cover panel to its open configuration, and (iv) plug aUSB power cable into the USB power recharging port or USB powerdischarging/supplying port, as the case may be.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improvedmethod of loading rechargeable battery power module in a luggage pieceusing single-handed operations, wherein the fingers of the user's handare used to (i) manually release and protract thetelescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplying assemblyfrom its base housing component installed in the luggage piece, (ii)slide or rotate its release latch/lock to unlock the hinged power portcover panel covering the battery module casing mounted beneath thetelescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplying assembly,(iii) rotate upwardly the hinged power port cover panel, (iv) load arechargeable a battery power module into the battery module casing, andthen press downwardly on the rechargeable battery power module retainedtin the battery module casing until the battery power moduleautomatically locks into position within the battery module casingbeneath the power port access opening surface, and (v) rotate the hingedpower port cover panel in a downwardly direction to close off thebattery module casing from the environment.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improvedmethod of removing a rechargeable battery power module from a luggagepiece using only single-handed operations, wherein the fingers of theuser's hand are used to (i) manually release and protract thetelescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplying assemblyfrom its base housing component installed in the luggage piece, (ii)slide or rotate its release latch/lock to unlock the hinged power portcover panel covering the USB power recharging and discharging ports of abattery power module loaded and retained in the battery module casingmounted beneath the telescopically-extendible handle assembly, (iii)rotate upwardly the hinged power port cover panel to its openconfiguration, (iv) press downwardly the rechargeable battery powermodule retained the battery module casing, and allow the battery powermodule to automatically pop-up out of and extend beyond the batterymodule casing opening for easily removal using the fingers of the user,and after removal of the battery module, (v) rotate the hinged powerport cover panel in a downwardly direction to close off the batterymodule casing from the environment.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improvedmethod of retaining a rechargeable battery power module in a luggagepiece using only single-handed operations, wherein the fingers of theuser's hand are used to (i) manually release and protract thetelescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplying assemblyfrom its base housing component installed in the luggage piece, (ii)slide or rotate its release latch/lock to unlock the hinged power portcover panel covering the battery module casing mounted beneath thetelescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplying assembly,(iii) rotate upwardly the hinged power port cover panel to its openconfiguration, (iv) load a rechargeable a battery power module, havingelastic retention projections on its bottom surface, into the batterymodule casing having a support platform with mated retention recessesthat releasably receive the elastic retention projections and retain thebattery power module within the battery module casing, (v) pressdownwardly on the rechargeable battery power module retained the batterymodule casing until the battery power module automatically locks intoposition within the battery module casing beneath the access openingsurface, and (vi) rotate the hinged power port cover panel in its closedconfiguration.

These and other objects of the present invention will become apparenthereinafter and in view of the appended Claims to Invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The Objects of the Present Invention will be more fully understood whenread in conjunction with the Figure Drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a first illustrative embodiment ofthe hard-shell luggage system of the present invention, wherein thehard-shell luggage system is positioned on its set of four spinnerwheels mounted in the four corners of the luggage system, wherein itsfront and rear hard-shell housing portions are arranged in a closedconfiguration and sealed using its integrated zipper mechanism, andwherein its telescopically-extendable handle and battery power supplyingassembly is arranged in its protracted configuration over the hingedpower port cover panel concealing its USB DC electrical power supplyingports, and DC power recharging port supported within therechargeable/replaceable battery power module, releasably retainedwithin a battery module casing having a semi-automatic (e.g. press andpop-up) battery module ejection mechanism mounted at the bottom endportion of the battery module casing;

FIG. 2 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, showing the front power access port for therechargeable/replaceable battery power module, covered by its hingedbattery port access cover panel arranged in its closed configuration;

FIG. 3 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, showing the battery module casing having anempty inner cavity without a rechargeable/replaceable battery powermodule loaded therein, while the hinged battery port access cover panelis arranged in its open configuration;

FIG. 4 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, showing the rechargeable/replaceable batterypower module being partially loaded within the battery module casing,and supported on the spring-biased support platform of thesemi-automatic battery module ejection mechanism of the presentinvention, while the hinged battery port access cover panel is arrangedin its open configuration;

FIG. 5 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, showing the rechargeable/replaceable batterypower module being pushed downward within the battery module casing, sothat the spring-biased support platform of the semi-automatic batterymodule ejection mechanism is allowed to approach its locked position,while the hinged power port cover panel is arranged in its openconfiguration;

FIG. 6 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, showing the rechargeable/replaceable batterypower module pushed completely downward within the battery modulecasing, with the spring-biased support platform of the semi-automaticbattery module ejection mechanism, having approached and reached itslocked position, while the hinged power port cover panel is arranged inits open configuration, and the battery power module is now ready foruse and supplying DC electrical power via USB power supplying cables;

FIG. 7 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, showing the rechargeable/replaceable batterymodule being pushed downwardly within the battery module casing, beneaththe locked position of the spring-biased support platform, while thehinged power port cover panel is arranged in its open configuration, soas to initiate the semi-automatic power module ejection mechanism of thepresent invention, causing the battery power module to be automaticallyejected from its battery module casing as shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 8 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, showing the rechargeable/replaceable batterymodule being pushed upward and out from the battery module casing, bythe semi-automatic battery module ejection mechanism of the presentinvention, and ready for manual removal from the battery module casingusing the fingers of the user, while the hinged power port cover panelis arranged in its open configuration;

FIG. 9 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of the present invention installed in the hard-shell luggagesystem of FIG. 1, corresponding to the luggage system and battery powermodule configuration shown in FIG. 2, revealing (i) the base housingcomponent with its hinged power port cover panel arranged in its closedconfiguration covering and closing the front rectangular power portaccess opening, (ii) the pair of stationary handle-rod guide tubesremoved for illustration purposes, (iii) the battery module casingmounted to the base housing component so that the interior of thebattery module casing is accessible through the front rectangular portpower access opening, (iv) the spring-powered battery module ejectionmechanism mounted to the bottom of the battery module casing, and (v)the replaceable battery power module shown removed from the cavityportion of the battery module casing at this state of operation;

FIG. 10 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of the present invention installed in the hard-shell luggagesystem of FIG. 1, corresponding to the luggage system and battery powermodule configuration shown in FIG. 3, revealing (i) the base housingcomponent with its hinged power port cover panel arranged in its openconfiguration providing access to the front rectangular port poweraccess opening, (ii) the pair of stationary handle-rod guide tubes shownremoved for illustration purposes, (iii) the battery module casingmounted to the base housing component so that the interior of thebattery module casing is accessible through the front rectangular powerport access opening, (iv) the semi-automatic spring-powered batterymodule ejection mechanism mounted to the bottom of the battery modulecasing, and (i) the replaceable battery power module shown removed fromthe cavity portion of the battery module casing at this state ofoperation;

FIG. 11 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of the present invention installed in the hard-shell luggagesystem of FIG. 1, corresponding to the luggage system and battery powermodule configuration shown in FIG. 4, revealing (i) the base housingcomponent with its hinged power port cover panel arranged in its openconfiguration providing access to the front rectangular power portaccess opening, (ii) the pair of stationary handle-rod guide tubes shownremoved for illustration purposes, (iii) the battery module casingmounted to the base housing component so that the interior of thebattery module casing is accessible through the front rectangular powerport access opening, (iv) the semi-automatic spring-powered batterymodule ejection mechanism mounted to the bottom of the battery modulecasing, and (i) the replaceable battery power module being slid ablyloaded within from the cavity portion of the battery module casing;

FIG. 12 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1,corresponding to the luggage system and battery power moduleconfiguration shown in FIG. 5, revealing (i) the base housing componentwith its spring biased power port cover panel arranged in its openconfiguration providing access to the front rectangular power portaccess opening, (ii) the pair of stationary handle-rod guide tubesremoved for illustration purposes, (iii) the battery module casingmounted to the base housing component so that the interior of thebattery module casing is accessible through the front rectangular accessport, (iv) the semi-automatic spring-powered battery module ejectionmechanism mounted to the bottom of the battery module casing, and (i)the replaceable battery power module fully loaded within the cavityportion of the battery module casing;

FIG. 13 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1,corresponding to the luggage system and battery power moduleconfiguration shown in FIG. 6, revealing (i) the base housing componentwith its hinged power port cover panel arranged in its openconfiguration providing access to the front rectangular power portaccess opening, (ii) the pair of stationary handle-rod guide tubesremoved for illustration purposes, (iii) the battery module casingmounted to the base housing component so that the interior of thebattery power casing is accessible through the front rectangular powerport access opening, (iv) the semi-automatic spring-powered batterymodule ejection mechanism mounted to the bottom of the battery modulecasing, and (i) the replaceable battery power module fully loaded withinthe cavity portion of the battery module casing;

FIG. 14 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1,corresponding to the luggage system and battery power moduleconfiguration shown in FIG. 7, revealing (i) the base housing componentwith its hinged power port cover panel arranged in its openconfiguration providing access to the front rectangular power portaccess opening, (ii) the pair of stationary handle-rod guide tubes shownremoved for illustration purposes, (iii) the battery module casingmounted to the base housing component so that the interior of the casingis accessible through the front rectangular power port access opening,(iv) the semi-automatic spring-powered battery module ejection mechanismmounted to the bottom of the battery module casing, and (i) thereplaceable battery power module fully loaded within the cavity portionof the battery module casing, and being pressed downwardly to initiatethe semi-automatic battery module ejection mechanism mounted at thebottom end of the battery module casing;

FIG. 15 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly y installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1,corresponding to the luggage system and battery power moduleconfiguration shown in FIG. 8, revealing (i) the base housing componentwith its hinged power port cover panel arranged in its openconfiguration providing access to the front rectangular power portaccess opening, (ii) the pair of stationary handle-rod guide tubesremoved for illustration purposes, (iii) the battery module casingmounted to the base housing component so that the interior of thebattery module casing is accessible through the front rectangular powerport access opening, (iv) the semi-automatic spring-powered batterymodule ejection mechanism mounted to the bottom of the battery modulecasing, and (i) the replaceable battery power module removed from thecavity portion of the battery module casing, to allow manual removal ofthe popped-up battery power module from the casing using the fingers ofthe user;

FIG. 16 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1,corresponding to the luggage system and battery power moduleconfiguration shown in FIG. 10, revealing (i) the pair oftelescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from the stationarytubes, (ii) the base housing component having its hinged power portcover panel arranged in its open configuration, with its battery powermodule being removed from the cavity of the battery module casing, and(iii) a spring-biased battery module locking latch mechanism, mountedabout the edge of the front rectangular access port of the batterymodule casing, being arranged in its un-locked configuration allowingthe battery power module to slide out from its battery power casing formanual removal using the fingers of the user;

FIG. 17 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of a second alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1,corresponding to the luggage system and battery power moduleconfiguration shown in FIG. 11, revealing (i) the pair oftelescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from the stationarytubes, (ii) the base housing component having its hinged power portcover panel arranged in its open configuration, with a battery powermodule being loaded through the front rectangular access port andhalf-way into the cavity of the battery module casing, and (iii) thespring-biased battery module locking latch mechanism of FIG. 16, mountedabout the edge of the front rectangular access port of the batterymodule casing, being arranged in its un-locked configuration allowingthe battery power module to slide out from its battery power casing formanual removal using the fingers of the user;

FIG. 18 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of the second alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1,corresponding to the luggage system and battery power moduleconfiguration shown in FIG. 12, revealing (i) the pair oftelescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from the stationarytubes, (ii) the base housing component having a hinged power port coverpanel arranged in its open configuration, with a battery power modulebeing fully loaded through the front rectangular access port andcompletely into the cavity of the battery module casing, and (iii) thespring-biased battery module locking latch mechanism of FIGS. 16 and 17mounted about the edge of the front rectangular access port of thebattery module casing, being arranged in its locked configuration,corresponding to the state of configuration of the battery ejectionmechanism 8 shown in FIG. 13, where the battery power module is safelyretained within the battery module casing, and manually releasable usingone finger to push the latch mechanism while using another finger topush down the battery power module beneath the semi-automatic batterymodule ejection mechanism in the battery module casing;

FIG. 19A is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional viewof the telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of a third alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1, revealing(i) the pair of telescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from thestationary tubes, (ii) the base housing component having a hinged powerport cover panel with a central lip, arranged in its closed/lockedconfiguration by way of a spring-biased latch, so as to retain a batterypower module loaded within the cavity of the battery module casing, asillustrated in the workflow shown in FIGS. 3 through 6;

FIG. 19B is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional viewof the telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of the third alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1, revealing(i) the pair of telescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from thestationary tubes, and (ii) the base housing component having a hingedpower port cover panel arranged in its open/unlocked configuration,achieved by manually depressing/releasing, with ones thumb, thespring-biased latch mounted on the base housing component, allowing abattery power module to be loaded within the battery module casing asillustrated in the workflow shown in FIGS. 3 through 6, or removedtherefrom, as the case may be as illustrated in the workflow shown inFIGS. 7 and 8, using single-handed battery module handling operations;

FIG. 20A is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional viewof the telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of a fourth alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1, revealing(i) the pair of telescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from thestationary tubes, and (ii) the base housing component having a hingedsubstantially-planar power port cover panel arranged in itsclosed/locked configuration, by a spring-biased latch, so as to retain abattery power module loaded within the cavity of the battery modulecasing;

FIG. 20B is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional viewof the telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of the fourth alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1, revealing(i) the pair of telescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from thestationary tubes, and (ii) the base housing component having a hingedsubstantially-planar power port cover panel arranged in itsopen/unlocked configuration, achieved by manually depressing, with onesthumb, the release latch mounted on the base housing component, allowinga battery power module to be loaded within the battery module casing asillustrated in the workflow shown in FIGS. 3 through 6, or removedtherefrom, as the case may be as illustrated in the workflow shown inFIGS. 7 and 8, using single-handed battery module handling operations;

FIG. 21A is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional viewof the telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of a fifth alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1, revealing(i) the pair of telescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from thestationary tubes, (ii) the base housing component having a hinged powerport cover panel arranged in its closed/locked configuration, to retaina battery power module loaded within the cavity of the battery modulecasing, as illustrated in the workflow shown in FIGS. 3 through 6, bymanually rotating/locking the cover panel into position usingsingle-handled battery module handling operations, as illustrated in theworkflow shown in FIGS. 3 through 6;

FIG. 21B is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional viewof the telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly of the fifth alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1, revealing(i) the pair of telescopically-extended tubes shown projecting from thestationary tubes, and (ii) the base housing component having a hingedpower port cover panel arranged in its open/unlocked configuration,achieved by rotating and unlocking the latch mounted on the hinged powerport cover panel component, allowing a battery power module to be loadedwithin the battery module casing, or removed therefrom, as the case maybe, using single-handed battery module handling operations, asillustrated in the workflow shown in FIGS. 3 through 6; and

FIG. 22 is a perspective, partially cut-away and cross-sectional view ofthe telescopic handle and power supply assembly of a sixth alternativeembodiment of the present invention shown installed in the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, revealing (i) the base housing componenthaving its hinged power port cover panel arranged in its openconfiguration, with a battery power module being loaded through thefront rectangular access port and half-way into the cavity of the battermodule casing, (ii) a resilient rubber pronged-like battery retentionbumper mounted at the bottom end of the battery module casing, and (iii)a mated or grooved prong-retaining plate mounted on the battery supportplatform located at the bottom of the battery power casing, so that thepronged rubber bumper is releasably retained within the mated groovedprong-retainer plate when the battery power module is loaded within thebattery module casing, as illustrated in the workflow shown in FIGS. 3through 6, preventing the battery power module from sliding out of thebattery module casing under normal and expected tips and falls of theluggage system, and during normal DC powering and recharging operations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENTINVENTION

Referring to the accompanying Drawings, like structures and elementsshown throughout the figures thereof shall be indicated with likereference numerals.

Specification of the Luggage System of the First Illustrative Embodimentof the Present Invention

Referring to FIGS. 1 through 8, the carry-on luggage system of the firstillustrative embodiment of the present invention 1 will now be describedin detail. The cross-sectional perspective views shown in FIGS. 9through 15 correspond to the perspective views shown in FIGS. 2 through8, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 1, the hard-shell luggage system 1 is positioned on itsset of four spinner wheels 2A through 2D mounted in the four moldedcorners of the luggage shells 3A and 3B forming the hard-shell luggagesystem. Its front and rear hard-shell housing portions 3A and 3B arearranged in a closed configuration and sealed using its integratedzipper mechanism 4, although it is understood that other sealing systemscan be used, for example, hard-hinges, latches and other fasteners. Asshown, its telescopically-extendable handle and battery power assembly 5of the present invention has a base housing component 5A, made frommolded hard plastic material, and installed in the aperture formed inrear housing shell 3B. In the preferred embodiment, the physicaldimensions of the carry-on luggage system are about 22×14×9 inches whichis the maximum carry-on size allowed for all major US-based carriersincluding Delta, United, and American Airlines. In alternativeillustrative embodiments of the present invention, these luggage piecedimensions may vary to meet the application at hand. Technical detailson the hard-shell luggage system 1 can be found in co-pending U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/935,335 filed Nov. 6, 2015, which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

As shown in FIG. 1, the telescopically-extendible handle and batterypower supplying assembly 5 is arranged in its protracted configurationover the hinged power port cover panel 5B concealing and protecting anumber of electrical components: (i) USB-type DC electrical powersupplying/discharging ports 6A and 6B; (ii) micro-USB-type DC powerrecharging port 6C; (iii) LED-based power state indicating lights 6D;and (iv) manually-operated power-level “press-to-test” battery levelbutton 6E. Each of these components is supported within the top surfacepanel of the rechargeable/replaceable battery power module 6, as shownin FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 7. As shown in FIG. 1, the rechargeable/replaceablebattery power module 6 is releasably and slidably retained within thehollow central cavity of the battery module casing 7. As shown in FIGS.1, and 9 through 15, the battery module casing 7 is securely fastened tothe bottom of the base housing component 5A, immediately beneath therectangular power port access opening 5J formed in the top surface 5K ofthe base housing component 5K. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 9 through 15, thebattery module casing 7 is provided with a semi-automatic(spring-powered) battery module ejection mechanism 8 mounted at the openbottom end portion of the battery module casing 7 by a set of screws.Various kinds of electro-chemical cells can be used to construct therechargeable/replaceable battery power module 6 of the presentinvention, including, but not limited to solid-state lithium-ion,solid-state sodium-ion, aluminum-air, zinc-air, and other batterytechnology known in the art.

In the protracted configuration, shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, 6 and 18, thehinged power port cover panel 5B is shown arranged in its openconfiguration providing access to the USB DC electrical powersupplying/discharging ports 6A, 6B, through the aperture formed by therectangular power port access opening 5J. In this configuration, theuser can pull (i.e. trolley) the luggage system during travel whileholding the mobile smartphone. In the event that the user is pulling theluggage system along a rainy surface (e.g. while talking on a mobilephone that is being recharged), the spring-biased power port cover panel5B will automatically close down on any USB power plugs installed in USBpower ports 6A and 6B, and operate to prevent rain from seeping into theUSB power ports of the luggage system and prevent electrical shock orshorting. Further, by being nestled within the confines of the wallssurfaces 5A and 5C of the well-shaped geometry of the base housingcomponent 5A, and beneath the hinged protected power port cover panel5B, provides the USB-type power supplying ports 6A and 6B andmicro-USB-type power recharging port 6C with added shelter from thenatural elements when traveling during rain, snow and/or dust storms.

As shown in FIG. 1, the telescopically-extendible handle and batterypower supplying assembly 5 is arranged in its protracted configurationwith the hinged power port cover panel 5B arranged in its closedconfiguration to conceal both its USB-type DC electrical powersupplying/discharging ports 6A and 6B and micro-USB-type DC powerrecharging port 6C. To recharge the onboard rechargeable DC batterymodule 6, an AC/DC power adapter (not shown) would be plugged into astandard 120V wall supply, and a USB cable (now shown) is connectedbetween the DC recharging port 6C and the AC/DC power adapter 25. As thebattery recharges, the LED-based battery level indicator lights 6D willilluminate to indicate when a fully battery recharge has been achieved.

Referring to FIGS. 1, and 9 through 15, the manually-releasable handleportion 5I contains an internal manual lock and release mechanism(not-shown) installed within the elongated handle structure 5I, which istriggered by manually-depressing a manually-depressible button locatedcentrally on the underside surface of the handle structure 5I Anysuitable lock and release mechanism can be used to practice the presentinvention, and is generally known in the telescoping-handle and luggagesystem arts.

As shown, the telescopically-extendable handle and battery powersupplying assembly 5 comprises a base housing component 5A having a setof spaced apart guide tubes 5F1, 5F2, into which a set of telescopingrod members 5G1, 5G2 pass and connect on one end to mounting aperturesformed in the handle portion 5I, and on the other end to mountingapertures formed in a telescopic rod member mounting bracket 5H having afoot portion 5H. As shown, the foot portion 5H mounts to the bottomsurface of the rear hard-shell housing portion 3B of the luggage systemusing glue or other suitable adhesive.

Preferably, base housing component 5A, guide tubes 5F1 and 5F2, and thetelescopic member mounting bracket 5H are molded from plastic material.Preferably, telescopic rods 5G1 and 5G2 are made from metal, carbonfiber or plastic materials exhibiting strength and resilience requiredby the application at hand where the user needs to pull (i.e. trolley)along the luggage system along sidewalks, up stairwells, and otherpathways aboard airplanes, trains, ocean liners and other travelvessels.

As shown in FIG. 1, the base housing component 5A further comprises: atop surface 5K, with a recessed well section in its middle region,having a front power port access opening 5J; side wall portions 5Cextending vertically from the top surface 5K; a top flange region 5Dextending off the perimeter edges of the side wall surfaces 5C; andhinged power port cover panel 5B that has a lip portion 5B2 and softrubber seals 5B2 on its underside to create a water seal with acorresponding groove formed in and about the inner perimeter of thepower port access opening 5J, thereby plugging up and sealing off thepower ports 6A, 6B and 6C from sources of water (e.g. pools, puddles,rain showers, snow falls, and other elements) when the hinged power portcover panel 5B is arranged in its closed configuration as shown in FIGS.1, 2 and 9.

As shown in FIG. 1, battery module casing 7 has an inner cavity 7A withan interior volume for receiving the battery power module 6. The batterymodule casing 7 is fastened to the bottom of the base housing component5, beneath the front power port access opening 5J, by a pair of screwsor other suitable fasteners. As shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 11 and 12, thebattery module casing 7 is adapted to slidably receive thereplaceable/rechargeable DC battery power module 6 for storage withinthe casing cavity 7A. The exterior dimensions of the battery powermodule 6 are slightly smaller than the interior dimensions of the cavityof the battery module casing 7, to allow easy receipt of the module 6within the casing 7, but to avoid jiggling or shaking of the batterymodule 7 within the casing 7. In the preferred embodiment, the batterymodule casing 7 has a plurality of air apertures formed on both majorside surfaces of the casing 7 to promote thermal heat transfer exchangebetween the battery power module 7 and the ambient environment duringbattery power discharging operations when heat energy is released duringelectro-chemical reduction operations within the battery power module 6.

As shown in FIG. 1, the battery module casing 7, with its battery powermodule 6 slidably retained therein, are supported within the plane ofand between the pair of spaced-apart stationary handle-rod guide tubes5F1 and 5F2, disposed immediately beneath the base housing component 5A.So arranged, this configuration provides the user with easy access tothe DC power ports 6A, 6B and 6C, through the power port access opening5J formed in top surface 5K, when hinged power port cover panel 5B isarranged in its open configuration, as shown in FIGS. 3 through 8. Asshown, the power port cover panel 5B is hinged to the base housingcomponent 5A (i.e. rotates about an axis of rotation that extendsbetween the stationary guide tubes 5F1 and 5F2) and covers the DC powersupplying/discharging ports 6A and 6B and DC power recharging port 6C,when the power port cover panel 5B is arranged in its closedconfiguration, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 9, and 13.

In the illustrative embodiments described herein, it is preferred thatthe hinged power port cover panel (or lid) 5B is spring-biased. In thecontext of the present invention, the term “spring-biased” shall meanthat the hinged panel 5B is configured or otherwise biased in some wayto automatically return or move to (i) a first predetermined closedposition if and when the hinged panel 5B is rotated to a firstparticular range of angular positions, or (ii) a second predeterminedopen position if and when the hinged panel 5B is rotated to a secondparticular range of angular positions. In this way, it is possible toachieve both a snapped-shut panel operation, as well as a snapped openpanel operation, by simply applying a slight rotation of the hingedpanel 5B, as desired, with the simple flick of the user's finger. Theuse of the term “spring-biased” hinged panel shall not be intended tomean that literally, a mechanical spring (made of metal or plastic) isor must be used in the implementation of the hinged power port coverpanel 5B and its associated assembly. Indeed, a mechanical spring mightbe used to construct the spring-biased hinged power port cover panel 5B.However, alternatively, one or more molded plastic projections, stemmingfrom the panel 5B, may engage with the base housing component, aroundthe perimeter access opening 5J region, so as to set up and achieve thedesired biasing forces so that the hinged panel 5B opens and closes asdesired, in an automated manner, in accordance with the spirit of thepresent invention. In other alternative embodiments, spring-biasing maynot used at all to implement the hinged power port cover panel of thepresent invention.

Also, in the illustrative embodiments, it is preferred that the batterymodule locking latches (e.g. latches 40, 50 and 60 shown in FIGS. 19Athrough 21B) are spring-biased as well. In the context of the presentinvention, the term “spring-biased” shall mean that the battery modulelocking latch is also configured or otherwise biased in some way toautomatically return or move to either (i) a first predetermined closedand locking position when the latch is flipped or turned one way withones finger(s), or (ii) a second predetermined open and unlockedposition when the latch is flipped or turned another way with onesfinger(s). In this way, it is possible to realize an automatic orsemi-automatic battery module locking/latching mechanism, which can bereleased and unlocked by simply applying a slight simple flick of theuser's finger, or rotation of a knob with the user's fingers, as thecase may be. The use of the term “spring-biased” battery module lockinglatch, and variations thereof, shall not be intended to mean thatliterally, a mechanical spring (made of metal or plastic) is or must beused in the implementation of the latch mechanism and its associatedassembly. Indeed, a mechanical spring might be used to construct aspring-biased battery module locking/latching mechanism integrated withthe hinged power port cover panel 5B. However, alternatively, one ormore molded plastic projections, stemming from the latch, may engagewith the base housing component or surrounding elements, so as to set upand achieve the desired biasing forces that cause the battery modulelocking mechanism to automatically lock as desired in accordance withthe spirit of the present invention. In other alternative embodiments,spring-biasing may not used at all to implement the battery modulelocking/latching mechanism of the present invention.

In the illustrative embodiment, the two USB DC powersupplying/discharging ports 6A and 6B are capable of charging twoDC-powered devices simultaneously, whereas the one micro-USB powerrecharging port 6C enables the charging of the rechargeable batterypower module 6 using a single USB-based AC/DC power adapter. Typically,using a 10,000 mAh battery, the battery power module 6 will be capableof fully charging an iPhone, or like mobile device, up to five or moretimes from a single 10,000 mAh battery charge. With future advances inbattery technology, such battery performance characteristics areexpected to improve.

Preferably, the power port cover panel 5B is spring-biased toautomatically close down upon USB plug connectors inserted into thepower ports 6A, 6B and 6C during discharging/supplying and/or rechargingoperations, to reduce exposure of the USB ports to the elements.However, in other embodiment, the power port cover panel 5B may berealized without the use of the spring biasing. Also, it is desired thatthe USB power ports 6A and 6B are recessed within the base housingcomponent 5A so that when USB power plugs are inserted into USB powersupplying/discharging ports 6A and 6B, the hinged power port cover panel5B can be configured in a partially-closed configuration while cablesassociated with charging and/or recharging operations can pass through asmall channel formed in the lip portion 5B1 in the power port coverpanel 5B, to prevent water (e.g. rain, snow, pool water, and otherelements) from entering open USB power ports while the luggage system isbeing transported through environments where exposure to rain and snowis inevitable.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 9 through 15, the semi-automatic battery moduleejection mechanism 8 is mounted at the bottom of the battery modulecasing 7 for semi-automatically ejecting the battery power module 6 fromwithin the cavity of the battery module casing 7 upon the user manuallypressing down on the top surface panel of the battery power module 6,made accessible through the power port access opening 5J, when the powerport cover panel 5B is arranged in its open configuration as shown inFIGS. 3 through 8.

As shown in FIGS. 1, and 9 through 15, the semi-automatic battery moduleejection mechanism 8 is realized as a compact module 8 that is connectedto the bottom of the battery module casing 7. In the illustrativeembodiment, the compact module 8 comprises an subassembly of components,namely: a module base housing 8E connected to a mounting plate 8H, whichis fastened to the open bottom end portion of the battery module casing7 by a pair of fastening screws, and having a support cylinder 8C; asupport platform or plate 8A, connected to a support post 8B that issupported within the support cylinder 8C; a pair of configuration-statelocking elements 8G1 and 8G2, operably connected to the bottom ofsupport post 8B, and allowed to rotate and translate relative to eachother with each downward movement of the support post 8B, and engagingand biased by a compressible spring element 8F supported at the bottomof the bore 8D. The pair of configuration-state-locking elements 8G1 and8G2 can be realized in various ways, but in general, will perform thesimilar functions as the found in prior art retractable/protractiblepens, and like devices, using springs and axially pushed cylinders asdisclosed and taught in expired U.S. Pat. No. 3,819,282 to Schultz,incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9 through 15, semi-automatic battery moduleejection mechanism 8 has three sequentially lockable states ofconfiguration and operation. In each such state of configuration, thesupport platform 8A supports the bottom end portion of the rechargeablebattery power module 6 loaded within the battery module casing 7, atdifferent longitudinal position along the axis of the battery modulecasing 7 at a different state of configuration. A quick review of thesethree different states of configuration will be appropriate at thisjuncture.

The first state of configuration is achieved when post 8B is manuallypushed along the support cylinder 8C so that the battery supportplatform 8A is moved to a position H1 by an uncompressed/expanded springelement 8F as shown in FIG. 10. This allows a battery power module 6 tobe loaded within the cavity of the battery module casing 7 as shown inFIG. 11.

The second state of configuration is achieved when post 8B is manuallypushed along the support cylinder 8C against the compressional forcesgenerated by the spring element 8F as shown in FIG. 12. This arrangesthe spring in a compressed state and allows for the configuration-statelocking elements 8G1 and 8G2 to configure and lock the battery supportplate 8A at position H3, as shown in FIG. 13 where the top surface ofthe battery power module 6 resides within power port access opening 5J.

The third state of configuration is achieved when the post 8B ismanually pushed along the support cylinder 8C against the compressionalforces generated by the spring 8F for a second consecutive time. Thistime, the support plate 8A reaches height H2, as shown in FIG. 14, andthe configuration-state locking elements 8F1 and 8F2 reconfigure andlock the support plate 8A at higher ejection position H3, as shown inFIG. 15 so that the top surface of the battery power module 6 residesabove within power port access opening 5J. In this state, the ejectedbattery power module 6 can be manually removed by the fingers of theuser, as shown in FIG. 16.

By virtue of the semi-automatic battery module ejection mechanism of thepresent invention, the battery power module 6 can be loaded within thebattery module casing 7 and by manually pressing down on the batterypower port panel 6F, the user can sequentially advance and achieve thesethree states of configuration and respective operation, as illustratedin FIGS. 12, 14 and 15.

In FIG. 11, the arrow indicates the direction of forces applied to thebattery power module 6 by the user's finger(s), against the compressedspring 5F during the first state of configuration and operation of thesemi-automated battery module ejection mechanism 8. Upon reconfigurationof the configuration-state locking mechanism 5G1 and 5G2, the arrowindicates the direction of forces on the battery module 6 generated bythe compressed spring 5F, and the top surface of the battery modulecasing 7 is maintained slightly above the plane of the power port accessopening 5J in a locked state of configuration illustrated in FIG. 12.

In FIG. 12, the arrow indicates the direction of forces applied to thebattery power module 6 by the user's finger(s), against the compressedspring 5F, once again, but this time during the second state ofconfiguration and operation of the semi-automated batter module ejectionmechanism 8. Upon reconfiguration of the configuration-state lockingmechanism 5G1 and 5G2, the top surface of the battery module casing 7 ismaintained flush with the power port access opening 5J, in a lockedstate of configuration illustrated in FIG. 13.

In FIG. 14, the arrow indicates the direction of forces applied to thebattery power module 6 by the user's finger(s), against the compressedspring 5F, during the third state of configuration and operation of thesemi-automated batter module ejection mechanism 8. Upon reconfigurationof the configuration-state locking mechanism 5G1 and 5G2, once again,the arrow indicates the direction of forces on the battery power module6 generated by the uncompressed spring 5F. As shown, the forces push thebattery power module 6 out of the battery module casing 7 and above thepower port access opening 5J, to allow for manual remove by the fingersof the user, as illustrated in FIG. 15.

Specification of a Semi-Automated Method of Loading and Unloading aRechargeable/Replaceable Battery Power Module Within the Battery ModuleCasing of the Telescopically-Extendable Handle and Battery PowerSupplying Assembly Installed Within a Hard-Shell Luggage System of theIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

Having described the structure and relationships among the basiccomponents comprising the luggage system 1 shown in FIG. 1, it isappropriate at this juncture to describe the various steps involved whenusing the semi-automated methods of the present invention, and how thevarious states of operation of the luggage system are advanced andsequenced while carrying out these methods.

FIG. 2 shows the front access port for the rechargeable/replaceablebattery module 6, covered by its hinged battery power port cover panel5B arranged in its closed configuration. The operation of FIG. 2 isshown from a cross-sectional point of view in corresponding FIG. 9. Inthis state of configuration, the soft rubber seals 5B2 on the hingedpower port cover panel 5B shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 are arranged againstthe matched groove formed in the perimeter of the front surface 5K aboutthe power port access opening 5J. This creates a water tight sealpreventing water from entering the DC power ports 6A, 6B and 6C when thepower port cover panel B is arranged in its closed configuration, asshown in FIGS. 2 and 9. This water-sealing feature should prevent damageto the battery power module 6 in the event the luggage piece is droppedin a pool of water, or exposed to rain, snow or extreme humidity, as thecase may be.

FIG. 3 shows the battery module casing 7 empty without therechargeable/replaceable battery module loaded therein, while the hingedbattery cover panel 5B is arranged in its open configuration. Theoperation of FIG. 3 is shown from a cross-sectional point of view incorresponding FIG. 10.

FIG. 4 shows a rechargeable/replaceable battery module 6 that ishalf-way loaded within the battery module casing 7 and supported on thespring-biased support platform 8A of the pop-up battery ejector module8, while the hinged battery cover panel 5B is arranged in its openconfiguration. The operation of FIG. 4 is shown from a cross-sectionalpoint of view in corresponding FIG. 11.

FIG. 5 shows the rechargeable/replaceable battery module 6 being pusheddownward within the battery module casing 7, so that the spring-biasedsupport platform of the semi-automatic battery module ejection mechanism8 approaches its locked position, while the hinged battery power portcover panel 5B is arranged in its open configuration. The operation ofFIG. 5 is shown from a cross-sectional point of view in correspondingFIG. 12.

FIG. 6 shows the rechargeable/replaceable battery module 6 pushedcompletely downward within the battery module casing 7, with thespring-biased support platform 8A approaches being arranged in itslocked position, while the hinged battery power port cover panel 5B isarranged in its open configuration, and the battery module ready for useand supplying DC electrical power via USB power supplying cables. Theoperation of FIG. 6 is shown from a cross-sectional point of view incorresponding FIG. 13.

FIG. 7 shows the rechargeable/replaceable battery module 6 pusheddownward within the battery module casing 7, beneath the locked positionof the spring-biased support platform 8A, while the hinged battery powerport cover panel 5B is arranged in its open configuration. The operationof FIG. 7 is shown from a cross-sectional point of view in correspondingFIG. 14.

FIG. 8 shows the rechargeable/replaceable battery module 6 pusheddownward within the battery module casing 7, beneath the locked positionof the spring-biased support platform 8A, while the hinged battery powerport cover panel 5B is arranged in its open configuration. The operationof FIG. 8 is shown from a cross-sectional point of view in correspondingFIG. 15.

Specification of the Operation of the Semi-Automatic Battery PowerModule Ejection Subsystem Employed in the Luggage System of the FirstIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

FIG. 9 reveals the base housing component 5A with its spring biasedpower port cover panel 5B arranged in its closed configuration coveringand closing the front rectangular access port 5J. During this state, thereplaceable battery power module 6 removed from the cavity portion ofthe battery module casing 7, and the spring-powered battery moduleejection mechanism 8 is ready for operation.

FIG. 10 reveals the base housing component 5A with its spring biasedpower port cover panel 5B arranged in its open configuration providingthe user access to the front rectangular power port access opening 5J.During this state, the battery module casing 7 is being prepared forloading a replaceable battery power module 6 therein.

FIG. 11 reveals the base housing component 5A with its spring biasedpower port cover panel 5B arranged in its open configuration and abattery power module 6 is shown being loaded within the cavity of thebattery module casing 7.

FIG. 12 reveals the base housing component 5A with its spring biasedpower port cover panel 5B arranged in its open configuration, and theuser pushing the battery module 6 into the base module casing 6 untilthe spring-powered battery module ejection mechanism 8 is arranged inits first state of configuration and operation, as described above.

FIG. 13 reveals the base housing component 5A with its spring biasedpower port cover panel 5B arranged in its closed configuration, and theloaded battery power module 6 arranged in its first state ofconfiguration maintained by the spring-powered battery module ejectionmechanism 8, as described above.

FIG. 14 reveals the base housing component 5A with its spring biasedpower port cover panel 5B rearranged in its open configuration, and theuser pressing down on the top surface of the battery power module 6 soas to release and push out the battery power module 6 from its batterymodule casing 7 under the spring-power of the battery module ejectionmechanism 8, as illustrated in FIG. 15, so that the user can manuallyremove the battery module 6 from the casing 7 with his or her fingers.

The above-described single-handed operations can be reversed to reloadthe battery power module 6 into the base module casing 7, as required ordesired by the user to meet requirements of normal travel needs, as wellas airline restrictions, product liability concerns, and/or heightenedsafety and security situations whenever and wherever they may arise.

Specification of the Second Illustrative Embodiment of the LuggageSystem of the Present Invention

FIGS. 16, 17 and 18 show a second alternative embodiment of thehard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1, employing a spring-biased batterymodule locking latch mechanism 30 mounted about the edge of the frontrectangular power port access opening 5J.

As shown in FIG. 16, the user slides a replaceable battery power module6 within the cavity portion of the battery module casing 7.

As shown in FIG. 17, the spring-biased battery module locking latch 30is arranged in its un-locked configuration, allowing the battery powermodule 6 to slide into, and out from the battery power casing 7.

As shown in FIG. 18, once the battery power module 6 is fully loadedinto the cavity of the batter module casing 7, the spring-biased batterymodule locking latch 30, automatically arranges into its lockedconfiguration, corresponding to the state of configuration of thebattery ejection mechanism 8 shown in FIG. 13, where the battery powermodule is safely retained within the battery module casing. In this openconfiguration, the spring-biased latch 30 retains the battery powermodule 6 within the battery module casing 7. To release the batterymodule 6 from the casing 7, the user simply uses one finger to manuallyrelease the spring-biased latch mechanism 30, while using another fingerto push down on the battery power module 6, located beneath thesemi-automatic battery module ejection mechanism 8, illustrated clearlyin FIGS. 9 through 15. By virtue of using this battery latch mechanism30, in combination with the semi-automatic battery module ejectionmechanism 8, it is now possible to provide an additional battery lockingmeasure to USB-power supplying luggage systems, and avoid the batterypower module 6 from accidently popping or falling out of the batterymodule casing 7 when the hinged power port cover panel 5B is arranged inits open configuration, and the handle assembly is arranged in itsprotracted configuration. Variations and modification to thiscombination assembly will occur to those skilled in the art having thebenefit of the present invention disclosure.

Specification of the Third Illustrative Embodiment of the Luggage Systemof the Present Invention

FIGS. 19A and 19B show a third alternative embodiment of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, employing a spring-biased battery modulelocking latch mechanism 40 mounted to the front edge of the power portcover panel 5B′. In this embodiment, the hinged power port cover panel5B′ has a lip portion 5B1′ that can be lifted up using the user'sfinger, while her thumb is used to push up on the spring-biased latch 40in the direction illustrated by the arrow in FIG. 19B

As shown in FIG. 19A, the hinged power port cover panel 5B1 is arrangedin its closed/locked configuration by way of a spring-biased latch 40,so as to retain a battery power module 6 loaded within the cavity of thebattery module casing 7.

As shown in FIG. 19B, the hinged power port cover panel 5B′ is arrangedin its open/unlocked configuration, achieved by manuallydepressing/releasing the latch 40 with ones thumb while lifting up onthe lip portion 5B1′ of the power port cover panel 5B′. In this openconfiguration, a battery power module 6 can be loaded within the batterymodule casing 7, or removed therefrom, as the case may be, usingsingle-handle battery module handling operations, as illustrated inFIGS. 2 through 16.

Specification of the Fourth Illustrative Embodiment of the LuggageSystem of the Present Invention

FIGS. 20A and 20B show a fourth alternative embodiment of the hard-shellluggage system of FIG. 1, employing a spring-biased battery modulelocking latch mechanism 50 mounted to the front edge of the power portcover panel 5B″. In this embodiment, the hinged power port cover panel5B′ is substantially planar and has no lip portion, as shown in thethird illustrative embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 20A, the hinged power port cover panel 5B1″ is arrangedin its closed/locked configuration by way of a spring-biased latch 50,so as to retain a battery power module 6 loaded within the cavity of thebattery module casing 7.

As shown in FIG. 20B, the hinged power port cover panel 5B″ is arrangedin its open/unlocked configuration, achieved by manuallydepressing/releasing the latch 50 with ones thumb in the direction ofthe arrow, causing the panel to pop-open in a spring-loaded manner in anormally-biased open configuration. In this open configuration, abattery power module 6 can be loaded within the battery module casing 7,or removed therefrom, as the case may be, using single-handle batterymodule handling operations.

Specification of the Fifth Illustrative Embodiment of the Luggage Systemof the Present Invention

FIG. 21A shows a fifth alternative embodiment of the hard-shell luggagesystem of FIG. 1, employing a rotary-type battery module locking latchmechanism 60 mounted in the central portion of the power port coverpanel 5B″′. In this embodiment, the hinged power port cover panel 5B″′is substantially planar and has no lip portion, as shown in the thirdillustrative embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 21A, the hinged power port cover panel 5B1′″ isarranged in its closed/locked configuration by way of a rotary latch 60,so as to retain a battery power module 6 loaded within the cavity of thebattery module casing 7.

As shown in FIG. 21B, the hinged power port cover panel 5B″′ is arrangedin its open/unlocked configuration, achieved by manually rotating thelatch knob 60 with ones thumb in the direction of the arrow, causing thepanel unlock from the base housing component, and pop-open in aspring-loaded manner in a normally-biased open configuration. In thisopen configuration, a battery power module 6 can be loaded within thebattery module casing 7, or removed therefrom, as the case may be, usingsingle-handle battery module handling operations.

Specification of the Sixth Illustrative Embodiment of the Luggage Systemof the Present Invention

FIG. 22 shows a sixth alternative embodiment of the present inventionshown installed in the hard-shell luggage system of FIG. 1. FIG. 22reveals the use of a rubber resilient pronged-like battery retention andmounting bumper 70 mounted at the bottom end of the battery module 7,and a mated grooved prong-retaining plate 75 mounted on the ejectorplatform 8A in the bottom of the battery module casing 7. With thisarrangement, the pronged rubber bumper 70 is releasably retained withinthe mated grooved prong-retainer plate 75 when the battery power module6 is loaded within the battery module casing 7. This releasable batteryretention mechanism (70, 75) prevents the battery power module 6 fromsliding out of the casing 7 under normal and expected tips and falls ofthe luggage system, and/or use of the battery power module 6 duringnormal DC powering and recharging operations.

In the preferred embodiment, the battery power module 6 is contained orhoused in battery module casing 7. At any instant in time, however,airport safety regulations will likely impact particular design choiceson whether or not battery storage devices are permitted within check-intype luggage systems, as well as carry-on type luggage systems.

Methods of Operating the Luggage Systems of the Present Invention UsingSingle-Handed Operations

The luggage systems described above are provided new and improvedbattery power modules, and advanced storage, retention and releasemechanisms. These technological improvements, in turn, support newmethods of operating these luggage pieces using single-handedoperations. Such methods include, but are not limited to, methods ofloading and unloading rechargeable battery power modules in such luggagepieces, and methods of accessing and using of battery power modules insuch luggage pieces while traveling.

Each of these improved methods provide simpler and more effective waysof retaining such battery power modules within the base module casingsbeneath the telescopically-extendible handle and battery power supplyingassembly 5 of the luggage pieces, with the added benefit of freeing upthe other hand of the user while traveling through diverse andchallenging environments including, for example, airports, terminals,staircases, roadways, sidewalks, hallways, bye-ways, as well as onairplanes, trains, buses, taxis, and other modes of transportationaround the world.

One method involves operating a luggage piece, such as shown in FIGS. 1through 15, using only single-handed operations. According to thismethod, the fingers of the user's hand are used to perform the followingoperations: (i) manually release and protract thetelescopically-extendible handle 5I from its base housing component 5installed in the luggage piece; (ii) slide or rotate its releaselatch/lock (30, 40, 50, 60) to unlock the hinged power port cover panel5B covering the USB power recharging and discharging ports ̂a, 6B and 6Cof a battery power module 6 loaded and retained in the battery modulecasing mounted beneath the telescopically-extendible handle 5I; (iii)rotate upwardly the hinged power port cover panel 5B to its openconfiguration (iv) plug a USB power cable into the USB power rechargingport or USB power discharging/supplying port of the battery power module6, as the case may be; and (v) rotate the hinged power port cover panel5B in a downwardly direction.

Another method involves loading a rechargeable battery power module 6 ina luggage piece, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 15, using onlysingle-handed operations. According to this method, the fingers of theuser's hand are used to perform the following operations: (i) manuallyrelease and protract the telescopically-extendible handle 5I from itsbase housing component 5 installed in the luggage piece; (ii) slide orrotate its release latch/lock (30, 40, 50, 60) to unlock the hingedpower port cover panel 5B covering the battery module casing 7 mountedbeneath the telescopically-extendible handle 5I; (iii) rotate upwardlythe hinged power port cover panel 5B to its open configuration (iv) loada rechargeable a battery power module 6 into the battery module casing7, and then press downwardly on the rechargeable battery power module 6retained the battery module casing 7, until the battery power moduleautomatically locks into position within the battery module casing 7beneath the access opening surface 5J; (v) rotate the hinged power portcover panel 5B in a downwardly direction to close off the battery modulecasing 7 from the environment; and finally (vi) manually release andretract the telescopically-extendible handle 5I into the base housingcomponent 5 mounted in the luggage piece 1.

Another method involves removing a rechargeable battery module from aluggage piece, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 15, using only single-handedoperations. According to this method, the fingers of the user's hand areused to perform the following operations: (i) manually release andprotract the telescopically-extendible handle 5I from its base housingcomponent 5 installed in the luggage piece; (ii) slide or rotate itsrelease latch/lock (30, 40, 50 or 60) to unlock the hinged power portcover panel 5B covering the USB power recharging and discharging portsof a battery power module 6 loaded and retained in the battery modulecasing 7 mounted beneath the telescopically-extendible handle 5I; (iii)rotate upwardly the hinged power port cover panel 5B to its openconfiguration; (iv) press downwardly the rechargeable battery powermodule 6 retained the battery module casing 7, and allow the batterypower module to semi-automatically pop-up and extending beyond thebattery module casing opening 5J for easily removable using the fingersof the user; (v) rotate the hinged power port cover panel 5B in adownwardly direction to close off the battery module casing 7 from theenvironment; and finally (vi) manually release and retract thetelescopically-extendible handle 5I into the base housing component 5mounted in the luggage piece 1.

Another method involves retaining a rechargeable battery power module 6in a luggage piece, as shown in FIG. 1 through 15, using onlysingle-handed operations. According to this method, the fingers of theuser's hand are used to perform the following operations: (i) manuallyrelease and protract the telescopically-extendible handle assembly 5Ifrom its base housing component installed in the luggage piece; (ii)slide or rotate its release latch/lock to unlock the latch (30, 40, 50or 60) on the hinged power port cover panel 5B covering the batterymodule casing 7 mounted beneath the telescopically-extendible handleassembly; (iii) rotate upwardly the hinged power port cover panel 5B;(iv) load a rechargeable a battery power module 6 having elasticretention projections 70 mounted on the bottom of the battery powermodule 6, into the battery module casing having a support platform 8Awith mated retention recesses 75 that releasably receive the elasticretention projections 70 and retain the battery power module 6 withinthe battery module casing 7, and then press downwardly on therechargeable battery power module 6 retained the battery module casing 7until the battery power module automatically snap-fit locks intoposition within the battery module casing beneath the access openingsurface; (v) rotate the hinged power port cover panel 5B in a downwardlydirection to close off the battery module casing from the environment;and finally (vi) manually release and retract thetelescopically-extendible handle 5I into the base housing component 5mounted in the luggage piece 1.

Modifications of the Illustrative Embodiments of the Present Invention

The present invention has been described in great detail with referenceto the above illustrative embodiments. It is understood, however, thatnumerous modifications will readily occur to those with ordinary skillin the art having had the benefit of reading the present inventiondisclosure.

While the battery module ejection mechanism 8 is mounted at the openbottom end portion of the battery module casing, in the illustrativeembodiment, it is possible to integrate such a modified spring-biasedmechanism 8′ to the bottom of the battery power module 6 itself, withproper modifications, to allow similar functions supported byfinger-pressing operations illustrated in FIGS. 9 through 15. Suchmodifications could involve having projections extending from themechanism 8′ passing through apertures formed in the battery modulecasing 7, to enable similar functions supported in the firstillustrative embodiment of the present invention described above.

For example, the luggage system of the present invention can be modifiedso that the telescopic handle and rechargeable power supply module 6 isadapted to provide one or more additional USB power supply ports mountedwithin the interior volume of the front hard-shell housing portion 3A.

While the luggage system has been described as a “carry-on” type pieceof luggage piece, and luggage systems have been described as“carry-on/check-in” luggage pieces, it is understood that the any ofthese luggage systems can be used in either carry-on, check-in and/orcarry-on/check-in applications and that how any such system of thepresent invention may be used by a user will depend on various factorsincluding prevailing governmental regulations operating in the airline,ocean-liner, railway and other travel-related industries.

These and all other such modifications and variations are deemed to bewithin the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by theaccompanying Claims to Invention.

1. A luggage system comprising: front and rear housing portions hingedtogether to provide a housing assembly provided with a set of spinnerwheels; and a telescopically-extendable handle and rechargeable powersupply assembly mounted within said rear housing portion and having apair of spaced -apart guide tubes mounted in said rear housing portion,and supporting a pair of telescopically-extendable rods joined to ahandle structure, for pulling said luggage system on said set of saidspinner wheels; wherein said telescopically-extendable handle andrechargeable power supply assembly includes (i) a base housing componentmounted in an aperture formed in said rear housing portion, and having atop surface with a power port access opening; (ii) a battery modulecasing mounted to and beneath said base housing component, and disposedsubstantially in the same plane as and between said pair of spaced-apartguide tubes; (iii) a rechargeable DC battery power module loaded throughsaid power port access opening, contained in said battery module casing,and providing a DC battery recharging port and a set of DC powersupplying ports, and said DC battery recharging port and said set of DCpower supplying ports being directly accessible through the power portaccess opening provided in said top surface of said base housingcomponent; and (iv) a semi-automatic battery power module ejectionmechanism mounted within said battery module casing, for ejecting saidbattery power module from said batter module casing when the finger of auser presses down on said battery power module while retained in saidbattery module casing so that said battery power module automaticallypops up above the surface of said power port access opening, for manualremovable of said battery power module from said battery module casing.2. The luggage system of claim 1, wherein said semi-automatic batterypower module ejection mechanism comprises a spring-biased platformmounted at the bottom of said battery module casing.
 3. The luggagesystem of claim 2, wherein said spring-biased platform has multipleconfigurable states including: a first lockable state where saidspring-biased platform is located at a first position in said batterymodule casing and supports said battery power module in said batterymodule casing at a first depth within said battery power module wherethe top of said battery power module resides at or below the surface ofsaid power port access opening; and a second lockable state where saidspring-biased platform is located at a second position in said batterymodule casing and supports said battery power module in said batterymodule casing at a second depth within said battery power module wherethe top of said battery power module resides above the surface of saidpower port access opening so as to allow said battery power module to bemanually removed and withdrawn from said battery module casing using thefingers of said user.
 4. The luggage system of claim 1, which furthercomprises: a power port cover panel hinged to said base housingcomponent and having a closed configuration and an open configuration,wherein said power port cover panel conceals said DC power rechargingport and said DC power supplying ports when said power port cover panelis arranged in said closed configuration, and wherein said power portcover panel reveals said DC power recharging port and said DC powersupplying ports when said power port cover panel is arranged in saidopen configuration.
 5. The luggage system of claim 4, wherein said DCbattery recharging port is realized as a micro-USB-type rechargeable DCbattery recharging port, and wherein DC power supplying ports arerealized as USB-type DC power supplying ports.
 6. The luggage system ofclaim 5, wherein said USB-type DC power supplying ports are adapted forreceiving the USB plugs of electrically-powered devices and supplyingelectrical DC power to said electrically-powered devices in a voltageregulated manner, and wherein said micro-USB-type DC power rechargingport is adapted to receive DC electrical power by way of a flexible DCpower cord.
 7. The luggage system of claim 1, wherein said rechargeableDC battery power module is removable from said battery module casing. 8.The luggage system of claim 5, wherein said micro-USB-type DC powerrecharging port and said USB-type DC power supplying ports are recessedwithin said base housing component so that when said power port coverpanel is arranged in its closed configuration, water is prevented fromentering the USB-type DC power recharging and supplying ports.
 9. Theluggage system of claim 8, wherein said power port cover panel comprisesrubber seals on its underside to create a water-proof seal when saidpower port cover panel is arranged in said closed configuration.
 10. Theluggage system of claim 5, wherein said power port cover panel is biasedto automatically close down upon USB-type DC power plug connectorsinserted into said USB-type DC power supplying ports during chargingoperations, and reduce exposure of said USB-type DC supplying ports tonatural elements.
 11. The luggage system of claim 1, which is ahard-shell luggage system, wherein said front housing portion isrealized as a front hard-shell housing portion; wherein said rearhousing portion is realized as a rear hard-shell housing portion;wherein said front and rear hard-shell housing portions are hingedtogether to provide a hard-shell housing assembly; and wherein saidtelescopically-extendable handle and rechargeable power supply assemblyis mounted in said rear hard-shell housing portion.
 12. The luggagesystem of claim 11 wherein said front and rear hard-shell housingportions are sealed using a two-part zipper subsystem.
 13. The luggagesystem of claim 1, wherein said set of spinner wheels comprises firstand second pairs of spinner wheels, wherein said first pair of spinnerwheels are mounted on the bottom of said rear housing portion, andwherein said second pair of spinner wheels are mounted on the bottom ofsaid front housing portion.
 14. The luggage system of claim 1, whereinsaid battery module casing is releasably fastened to said base housingcomponent to permit said rechargeable DC battery power module to bereplaced as required.
 15. A method of operating a luggage piece usingonly single-handed operations, comprising the steps of: (a) using thefingers of the user's hand for (i) manually releasing and protracting atelescopically-extendible handle assembly from a base housing componentinstalled in the luggage piece, (ii) sliding or rotating a releaselatch/lock to unlock a hinged power port cover panel covering a USBpower recharging port and one or more USB discharging ports supported ona battery power module loaded and retained in a battery module casingmounted beneath said telescopically-extendible handle assembly, (iii)rotating upwardly the hinged power port cover panel, and (iv) plugging aUSB power cable into the USB power recharging port or USB powerdischarging/supplying port, as the case may be.
 16. (canceled)
 17. Amethod of removing a rechargeable battery module from a luggage pieceusing only single-handed operations, comprising the steps of: (a) usingthe fingers of a user's hand for (i) manually releasing and protractingthe telescopically-extendible handle assembly from its base housingcomponent installed in the luggage piece; (ii)) rotating upwardly thehinged power port cover panel; and (iii) pressing downwardly therechargeable battery power module inserted through an opening formed insaid luggage piece, and retained a battery module casing mounted in saidluggage piece, and allowing the battery power module to pop-up andextend beyond said opening for easy removal using the fingers of theuser.
 18. (canceled)